Interview With CEO FEBO Netherlands: Dennis Borst
Posted on: Januar 1, 2025
FEBO Netherlands: Typical Dutch Food Out Of A Wall
10 Questions For The CEO of FEBO Netherlands
Dennis Borst (in picture above) is the current managing director of FEBO Netherlands. He’s also the grandson of Johan de Borst (1919 – 2008), the founder of the FEBO.
The restaurant chain was originally just a bakery named “Maison FEBO” after the Ferdinand Bolstraat in Amsterdam. Since then the Dutch concept has changed and the name has been shortened to just “FEBO”, but the quality remains. We did a short interview with him about Holland’s most loved walk-up restaurant.
1 | Dennis Borst, how would you describe the FEBO to foreigners?
The FEBO at Leidsestraat Amsterdam back in 1987.
FEBO is the largest confectioner in the Netherlands. Every day FEBO Netherlands makes its snacks fresh in the kitchen. Everyone knows FEBO of the automatic. Take a snack from the wall. This Dutch heritage is strictly guarded by the FEBO family.
The FEBO nowadays at the Leidsestraat in Amsterdam.
2 | The “kroket” is an original Dutch snack. What are its ingredients?
We make a fresh broth from Dutch beef. In grandfather’s fashion we make a creamy ragout that serves as a filling for our delicious croquettes.
3 | What was the favourite FEBO snack of famous football player Johan Cruyff?
Johan Cruijff often visited the two branches at Amsterdam’s Stadionplein. The FEBO and FEBO Olympia, his favourite snacks were the sandwich special and the sandwich “halfom”. The halfom being his true favourite. (Editor’s note: a sandwich “halfom” is a typical Dutch snack consisting of salted meat and cooked liver, with or without bacon. The name “halfom”comes from “half-to-half” sandwich, i.e. half-baked with two types of meat.)
4 | What type of snack is the vega grill-burger?
The VEGA Grillburger is the vegetarian version of our 40-year-old hero the Grillburger. Just as tasty but without the meat.
5 | Do you plan on releasing any more surprising new Dutch snacks in the future?
We are working hard to further expand our vegetarian assortment. Soon we will also come up with surprising combinations for our famous FEBO ice cream.
6 | Not too long ago, FEBO Netherlands had a floating “sail through” restaurant in the canals. What was the reason for this and will it someday return to Amsterdam?
On the occasion of our 75th anniversary, we treated the whole City of Amsterdam to free party croquettes. Who knows, maybe it will return someday. It was a big success!
7 | How many FEBO’s do you have in the Netherlands?
FEBO Netherlands currently has 75 branches.
8 | What is the most popular (best) snack of the FEBO?
The Kroket and the Grillburger are our absolute heroes. But right on their heels are our French fries, chicken, milkshakes and ice cream.
9 | In what ways is FEBO adapting to the new healthy food trend?
We monitor our 77 year old family recipes and ensure that there is less salt in them and we fry responsibly. We do not serve alcohol and promote the drinking of water.
10 | Why did you decide to work with us our brand new audio tour about Amsterdam’s Red Light District?
De Wallen (which is the Dutch name for Amsterdam’s Red Light District) forms an important part of the history of Amsterdam. And wherever our guests visit Amsterdam you will always find a FEBO. We are proud of our FEBO in the Red Light District. Didn’t you just get hungry spontaniously during this interview?
Learn more about FEBO Netherlands, Dutch culture & Amsterdam during our Rotlichtviertel Tour.. With the app Amsterdam Audio Tours you get stories from 22 different experts (including FEBO’s CEO) who share their expertise about Holland’s capital.
DOWNLOAD NOW!The Fascinating History of FEBO Amsterdam
FEBO is more than just a fast-food stop — it’s a Dutch institution with roots going back to 1941. It all began in Amsterdam when baker Johan de Borst opened Maison FEBO on Ferdinand Bolstraat. Initially known for fresh bread and pastries, the bakery quickly became famous for its homemade croquettes.
By the 1960s, de Borst revolutionized Dutch street food by introducing the automat wall — a row of glass-fronted compartments stocked with hot snacks ready for the taking. This innovation changed the way locals ate on the go and set FEBO on the path to becoming one of the Netherlands’ most beloved food brands.
The Unique Automat Dining Experience
The FEBO automat is like no other dining experience in Amsterdam. Picture a wall lined with small windows, each containing a freshly prepared snack. You simply insert coins or tap your card, open the door, and enjoy — no lines, no waiting.
Behind those little doors, staff work constantly to replenish the compartments with piping hot treats. This means you’re getting fast food that’s freshly made, not sitting for hours. For visitors, it’s both a meal and an experience — the novelty of grabbing food from a wall never really wears off.
What to Eat: FEBO’s Most Popular Snacks
FEBO’s menu is a celebration of Dutch comfort food, and there are a few items you can’t leave without trying:
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Kroket – A golden, crispy roll filled with creamy meat ragout.
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Frikandel – A skinless, spiced sausage that’s best with mayonnaise or curry sauce.
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Kaassoufflé – A cheese-filled pastry that’s perfect for vegetarian visitors.
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Kipcorn – Breaded chicken with a crunchy cornmeal coating.
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Bami & Nasi Snacks – Indonesian-inspired fried noodle and rice bites, reflecting Dutch colonial history.
The best part? Snacks are affordable, usually between €2–€3, making it easy to try several in one visit.
FEBO’s Place in Dutch Culture
For many locals, FEBO is more than a quick meal — it’s part of growing up in the Netherlands. Students grab a kroket between classes, partygoers stop by after the clubs close, and families visit for a weekend treat. The brand has embraced this cultural significance, even releasing merchandise like FEBO-branded hoodies, caps, and socks.
FEBO isn’t just selling food; it’s serving nostalgia. For tourists, eating at FEBO is a way to experience everyday Dutch life in the most authentic — and delicious — way possible.
Tips for Visiting FEBO in Amsterdam
If you’re planning to try FEBO while in Amsterdam, here are a few tips for the best experience:
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Go during busy times for the freshest snacks — lunch, dinner, and late night are ideal.
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Try multiple items — part of the fun is sampling different flavors.
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Bring small change or use contactless payment for speed and convenience.
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Look for central locations like Damrak, Leidseplein, and near Amsterdam Central Station for easy access.
Whether you’re in the city for sightseeing or nightlife, FEBO offers quick, tasty fuel to keep you going.
FAQs About FEBO Amsterdam
What does FEBO stand for?
FEBO is named after its first location on Ferdinand Bolstraat in Amsterdam.
Is FEBO open late?
Yes — many Amsterdam branches are open well past midnight, especially in nightlife areas.
Is FEBO food vegetarian-friendly?
Yes — try the kaassoufflé or vegetable spring rolls for vegetarian options.
Is the food fresh if it comes from a wall?
Absolutely — staff refill the compartments continuously, ensuring snacks are hot and fresh.
ALSO READ:
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